This thought has had a profound effect on my understanding of the emotional release of abuse memories. The thoughts is that no matter how old we are, when those memories overwhelm us, or we share those memories, the feelings, the emotions that are present are not those of a mid twenties, thirties or sixties year old. Those overwhelming emotions are from that wounded, terrified, lonely boy that only a few moments ago was offended, abused, assaulted or deceived by a sick person. That boy is trying to express himself after years or decades being suppressed, ignored or silenced.

Let me add, gentle survivors, that allowing this release is cathartic. It genuinely leads to healing, to protecting and nurturing that hurt boy, encouraging him to heal, to mature and to join those parts of us that have moved on, our intellect and physicality. We become one through releasing those tears of that age.

Well said-our child that has held the emotions of the abuse and feelings toward the abuser is being released. The release is needed to allow for the healing. Unfortunately the pain and affects of the release is different for all of us.

I appreciate your reminder, Sam. And the how's and when's that we experience emotional catharsis is an individual experience - I guess that some characteristics are similar for all of us. I long for a time when I feel totally integrated, physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually(whatever that might mean). I mostly doubt I will see that day, but then I have come to understand that living in this moment and being daily "present" in my journey IS the great adventure. The goal or the destination is good to keep an "eye" on, but what really matters is what I do along the way.This is my first post here. I want to express thanks for all of you who submit and share your experiences. I am greatly encouraged by your input.:>)

I do like this quote, which maybe fits the spirit of the thread better:

"There is sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and unspeakable love." - Washington Irving

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�We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark. The real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.� - Plato

In Frank Herbert's classic sci ti novel, Dune, the greatest tribute and honor that one could give to another was to weep for him. It was a desert planet where water was very scarce and precious and all body secretions were recycled. Weeping was called "giving water."

In weeping for or as our childhood self we give credence, honor, and love to him as a wounded survivor. Sometimes I have found it easier to weep for my brother survivors than for or as myself.

You are so right on this, Sam.LEE

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"My experience has shown me that I all too often tend to deny that which lies behind, but as I still believe, that which is denied cannot be healed." Brennan Manning, "All is Grace - A Ragamuffin Memoir"

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